What I've had to quickly learn in this town is that there's a story in everything, and everyone, if you're willing to dig deep enough.

This industry is much more nuanced than some might imagine— in fact I've come to realise that first hand.

During my short time as a freelancer in Sydney, and even as an intern in Pittsburgh, I came to know journalism as an industry that was quite mechanical. It became tedious cycle—news flying in from all directions, sifting through the noise, extracting what mattered, and producing articles that felt robotic, detached, almost lifeless in their lack of creativity.

Community journalism is a little different—and in ways that I quite enjoy. It pushes you to be more proactive, to look under every rock in search of a story. It allows for more creativity, not only in that way, but also in the freedom it grants you as a story teller.

Most importantly, it breaks down the barrier between journalist and reader. Instead of sitting behind an office wall, you’re out there, immersed, living alongside the people you write for. You stop feeling like an outsider looking in, and instead become part of community itself.

Although I'm still learning with every day on the job, I’m beginning to understand that community journalism isn’t just about reporting—it’s about belonging. It's about resonating with the community, not just in your writing, but in how you carry yourself. And although I'm no local, with each person I meet, and every story that I write, that gap is being bridged.

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Last Monday, the quick thinking and kindness of a local helped save a distressed sea turtle washed ashore at Wunjunga Beach.

“Thank you to the lovely animal carers that drove all the way to Townsville with our earth’s valuable sea creature,” wrote Annie Taylor in a post she shared online.

Before the animal carers arrived, Annie and other locals worked together to keep the turtle calm and comfortable, gently placing wet towels over its body and keeping its eyes moist. Their efforts ensured the turtle was in the best possible condition before being safely transported by professionals to James Cook University Veterinary Clinic in Townsville.

Annie’s thoughtful actions highlight the care and compassion of the local community, reminding everyone of the difference a few willing hands can make for wildlife in need. She also shared her observations of the shoreline online, sparking important conversations about preserving the natural habitat that supports these incredible marine creatures.

For anyone who spots wildlife in trouble, NQ Wildlife Care is ready to help! Call 0414 717 374.

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Twelve local cyclists proudly represented the Burdekin in the 25th annual Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, joining 191 riders for the gruelling 371km journey.

Riding as part of the Eagles group, the team tackled the three-day event, which raises vital funds for children’s cancer research. The opening leg covered 108km from Townsville to Ingham, followed by a challenging 170km ride from Ingham to Innisfail on Day Two. Riders faced the notorious Cardwell Range before continuing via the old Tully highway to Silkwood, Mena Creek and South Johnstone. The final day was a 93km stretch into Cairns, where the group crossed the finish line together.

Local riders Kurt Perry and Brooke Cross claimed the Eagles’ “King and Queen of the Mountain” titles as the first male and female to conquer the Cardwell Range. Both Perry and Cross, along with Mario Romeo and James Kennedy, were consistently among the front riders, helping lead the team into Cairns.

Several first-time riders also made their mark, with Meg Blakey, Perry, Andrew Kennedy and Tahia Blakey successfully completing the full ride. Meanwhile, Andrew Sherrington, James Kennedy, James Jensen and Robbie Mitchell were recognised for their incredible commitment, each clocking up more than 10 years of participation.

Further accolades went to Brooke Cross, who was awarded the prestigious ‘Spirit of the Ride’ honour. The award recognises a rider who demonstrates dedication, inclusiveness, and an ongoing commitment to the Eagles.

The ride held special meaning for the local team, who dedicated their efforts to the late Michael “Moon” Mooney. Moon, who passed away in 2019 from Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma, completed the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride six times.

Now in its 25th year, the event has raised more than $9 million for children’s cancer research, with this year’s ride contributing $360,155. Each participant was required to raise funds, and the Burdekin contingent alone brought in an impressive $29,035. Leading the way was first-time rider Meg Blakey, who raised $6,357.

A special acknowledgement goes to Eathorne’s Masters, who contributed $2,458 through the Mooney Cup initiative, which has supported the ride since 2019.

The riders extended their heartfelt thanks to all supporters and sponsors, whose generosity continues to help fund vital research into finding a cure for children’s cancers.

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The 12 Burdekin Riders at the Cairns finish line after completing the 371km 2025 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride! (back) Evan Shannon, Andrew Sherrington, Andrew Kennedy, (middle) Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Mark Dale, Tahia Blakey, (front) James Kennedy, Meg Blakey, Brooke Cross, and Kurt Perry (Photo Supplied)

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Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has called on local sporting clubs to take advantage of a recently announced fund to assist clubs in recovering from this year’s severe weather event.
The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) is jointly funded by the state and federal governments and will provide up to $1 Million for repairs and even upgrades to help mitigate the effects of future events.

“When events like those we saw earlier this year happen, the effects are felt across the community, including by our sporting clubs,” Mr Last said.  “Because of the importance of sport and similar activities in communities like ours, we wanted to ensure those clubs were supported.”

“Funding is available to help repair or replace a wide range of facilities and equipment.  In addition to fields and playing surfaces, repairs to canteens, fences, shade structures and car parks are also eligible for funding support.”

“For a lot of sports their seasons are coming to a close, so now is an ideal time to get in and tackle more expansive repairs that are needed to ensure clubs can fully recover and are prepared for the future.  While replacing ‘like for like’ will be suitable in most cases, we also want to ensure that opportunities to upgrade are given proper consideration.”

“If clubs can demonstrate that upgrading facilities and equipment represents good value for money, or will help mitigate the impacts of future disasters, then I would encourage them to apply for funding to make those upgrades.”

Mr Last said that even though the weather event may seem a long time ago, he was well aware of the effort clubs went to ensure activities were available, especially for younger players.
“Even though the weather event caused quite a lot of damage, we definitely have reason to be thankful,” he said.  “I know of several sports where volunteers jumped from their own clean-up to helping their club and, in some cases, the club came first.”

“To me, that’s why supporting our clubs with funding like this is so important.  We all know the benefits of being active, but we also have clubs where great examples of going the extra mile for your community is demonstrated on a regular basis and that is part of the fabric of our community.”

“Unlike many other funding programs, assessments will commence when applications are received.  Whilst that ensures that work gets underway as soon as possible, it also means that clubs need to be proactive because applications will close earlier if funding is exhausted.”

“We have made it clear to the federal government that there may be a need to extend the program or amend the eligibility criteria to ensure we get the best outcomes possible for our local groups.”

“We want our clubs to get back on their feet so Queenslanders can not only experience the physical and mental health benefits of sport but also the togetherness that these clubs bring to the community.  I’d encourage clubs to make contact with their Sport and Recreation officer as soon as possible to check their eligibility and to get their application lodged.”

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Ayr State High School continues to excel in STEM education, with students actively engaging in a wide range of opportunities that showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students proudly represented the school in the Australian Mathematics Competition, the ICAS Science Competition, and the International Chemistry Quiz, demonstrating their problem-solving abilities and critical thinking. Four Year 10 students further extended their learning at a three-day maths camp on Magnetic Island, collaborating with peers from across the region. National Science Week was another highlight, with STEM Ambassador Bella Lawry leading engaging activities such as science trivia, hands-on experiments, and a creative chocolate biscuit periodic table. Together with past STEM ambassadors Melody Curro and Caitlyn Cheyne, Bella also worked with primary school students from East Ayr State School, sparking curiosity and excitement for STEM in younger learners.

Past STEM Ambassador Caitlyn Cheyne was selected to take part in the highly competitive SPARQ-ed (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland – Education) program in Brisbane. This unique biomedical research program is delivered through a collaboration between the Department of Education and the Translational Research Institute (TRI), giving students the rare opportunity to work alongside world-class scientists on cutting-edge projects. School Captain Sophie Robertson also achieved remarkable success, earning the prestigious Peter Doherty Outstanding Senior STEM Student Award, recognising her as one of the state’s most exceptional young scientists. In addition, Sophie was selected as one of only ninety students worldwide to attend the International Science School, joining 45 students from Australia and 45 from countries including China, the UK, and New Zealand - a once-in-a-lifetime experience that places her on the global stage of STEM excellence.

Mr Rob Scalia, Head of Department – Mathematics and Science said, “These outstanding successes strongly reinforce that small regional state schools, like Ayr High, are indeed great schools - providing outstanding opportunities and producing exceptional outcomes for students”.

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Sophie Robertson – Peter Doherty Outstanding Senior STEM Student Award

Caitlyn Cheyne – SPARQ-ed Program (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland – Education)

Chloe Hook and Bella Lawry (STEM ambassador) – National Science Week

STEM Ambassadors with experienced Yr 12 Chemistry, Physics and Biology Teachers
Mr Rob Scalia, Melody Curro, Bella Lawry, Mrs Claire Brock, Caitlyn Cheyne, Sophie Robertson and Mrs Maree Holmes

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Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus.

“I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.”

Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in the workshop,” he commented. “Watching how they fix problems has shown me what the job is really like.”

Caleb isn’t waiting around for opportunity to knock. He’s stacking experience wherever he can, working part-time. “I also have a job at Dan’s Automotive,” said Caleb. “When I’m not doing work experience or school, I work there, where I am learning a lot.”

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Caleb’s initiative is exactly what Tec-NQ House is designed to encourage. “Caleb is taking every chance to learn; he’s balancing school, work experience, and a real job. That work ethic is what sets our students up for apprenticeships,” Luke said.

He also points to the advantage of transport and flexible staff support. “Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus each day, and students are driven to and from their workplaces as required,” said Luke. "That means students can get to placements, arrive on time, and focus on learning rather than logistics,” added Luke.

As a boarder, Caleb benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding facility in Rosslea, providing accommodation for up to forty senior students from regional and remote Queensland so they can access Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

The residence blends structure with a warm, homely feel. Students have 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal lounges, computer access, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.

Daily routines make success easier. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals, staff run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions build friendships.

“Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” said Luke. “We set expectations around study, wellbeing and behaviour, and we’re right there to guide them. The result is young people who are ready for the workplace.”

That workplace-ready mindset is exactly what Caleb is building. He’s learning to communicate with tradespeople, follow procedures, and take pride in doing the small things right: clean tools, tidy bays, and careful checks before a car leaves the workshop. Each shift adds to his confidence.

Caleb’s next goal is clear: secure an automotive apprenticeship and keep learning on the tools. With Tec-NQ House providing structure, support and proximity to employers, and with the combination of work experience, paid work and school learning under his belt, he’s well on the way.

Keep up the great work, Caleb; your future is idling at the lights, and you’ve already got the green.

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Automotive trade experience. Photo supplied.
Caleb at Tech NQ's common area. Photo supplied.

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It’s always rewarding to see projects progressing that will have long-term benefits for our community.
Stage 5 of the Home Hill Be-Active Trail is progressing well, with the two-metre-wide concrete footpath currently being constructed along Seventeenth Street between Seventh Avenue and Eleventh Avenue. As someone who has spent plenty of early mornings on the farm watching the “black snow” fall during crushing season, I know how much locals value being outdoors and active in our fresh air. This trail is about creating safe, accessible spaces where families, walkers and cyclists can enjoy Home Hill year-round, with Stage 6 to follow as part of Council’s commitment to building a fully connected network.
Another milestone reached this month is the adoption of the Burdekin Aquatic Centre Master Plan. This plan will guide the future of the centre and ensures it meets the needs of our community for years to come. Following strong feedback from residents, the design has been refined which results in practical outcomes that reflects local voices.
Both of these projects show how community input shapes the work Council does. Whether it’s building paths in Home Hill or planning the future of the aquatic centre, these are investments in the wellbeing, connection and lifestyle of the Burdekin.

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At a recent Chamber meeting, I heard about Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission. A deeply personal initiative born from heartbreak, yet driven by hope and action, highlighting the tough realities faced by families, including those in our community. It is impossible not to be moved by the stories of parents who, with hand on heart, share their journey of tragedy, grief and courage.Many of you will know Ren, a former Burdekin local now living in Townsville. Ren’s daughter was just seven years old when she was diagnosed with a deadly childhood brain cancer and sadly passed away 16 months later. Since then, Ren has dedicated his life to raising awareness and vital funds for research, with a mission to raise $1 million. His story and the stories of families here in the Burdekin remind us of the urgent need for support. If you are able, I encourage you to contribute. Every single dollar can make a difference. To donate visit https://www.ccia.org.au/event/rens-million-dollar-mission/donate.On Monday night, I also attended a presentation by the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation, which works to spread a powerful message of respect, empathy, and prevention in the fight against domestic and family violence. It was a reminder of the strength that can come from turning pain into action, and the importance of standing together as a community.And as we reflect on these important causes, we can also celebrate the connections that unite us. The Burdekin Water Festival is just around the corner, with the Long Lunch this Saturday showcasing our 2025 Festival Ambassadors, it will be a great chance to come together and enjoy the spirit of our region.Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

As part of Road Safety Week, Burdekin Catholic High School welcomed firefighters Ashley Ryder from Ayr Fire Station and Alex Diorietes from Kirwan Fire and Rescue Station for an engaging Road Attitudes and Action Planning (RAAP) presentation last Wednesday.

RAAP is a free road safety program delivered by operational firefighters, designed for Year 11 and 12 students across Queensland. With around 20 years of delivering the program in the Burdekin region, the firefighters bring first-hand experience of the consequences of road crashes, responding to more than 22,000 incidents statewide each year.

"Coming from this community where I see the impacts of road trauma, it makes it more important for myself to provide these young drivers with options and make them understand that if they make a poor choice behind the wheel, the consequences that follow will be life changing," said Ryder.

Last week's sessions focused on the “Fatal 5” risks—speeding, fatigue, inattention, alcohol, and other substances—and the importance of planning ahead, whether as a driver or passenger. The presentation combined interactive discussions with multimedia resources, including eye-opening videos, keeping the roughly 40 students engrossed throughout.

"We use the Fatal 5 with scenarios... to give [young drivers] real life consequences of when drivers do not make good choices," highlighted Ryder. "The most common Fatal 5 for this age group is Inattention and Distraction with phones, we give them ways and options so the temptation to use their phone is eliminated.

The students actively participated, asking questions and reflecting on scenarios. Parents and teachers have praised the program, noting that conversations about road safety often continue at home.

"I had feedback recently that one young lady who attended a recent presentation used a prompt from a scenario within the presentation to stop one of her friends from driving under the influence. That is a big message we push: 'look out for your Mates,'" said Ryder.

By combining practical advice with real-world experience, RAAP helps young people build confidence, awareness, and the skills to make safer choices on and off the road.

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Homelessness is often viewed as a “big city” problem, but a group of passionate young leaders from Burdekin Catholic High School set out to challenge that belief – and in doing so, inspired the whole community.

The idea for the school’s Stand Up Sleep Out was sparked when Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort encouraged school captains to think about why events like the Vinnies CEO Sleepout are held in major cities such as Brisbane, but rarely in regional towns like Ayr. For school captain Drea Piotto and her peers, the message was clear – homelessness exists in the Burdekin too, and it’s time to bring the issue into the light.

“Our goal was to open people’s eyes, raise awareness, and generate vital support,” Drea explained. “Homelessness is rarely a choice, and breaking that destructive belief was a driving force behind our event.”

The lead-up to the Sleep Out saw students hear powerful stories from people with lived experience, including those whose lives changed in an instant. For many, it was the first time they truly understood the realities of homelessness – especially in their own backyard.

The event’s success was made possible by the unwavering support of local businesses that included Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr. CEOs and community leaders were invited to take part, with an entry donation of $100. Many stepped up, including the Burdekin Shire Council leadership team, showing that leadership extends well beyond the boardroom.

“While it wasn’t the most comfortable night’s sleep, I hope they felt proud knowing they helped create meaningful change,” Drea said.

A key supporter was Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr, whose donation ensured more funds could go directly to the Burdekin Community Association, the chosen beneficiary. This local focus meant every dollar raised stayed in the region to support those who need it most.

“We’re especially grateful to Senior Branch Manager, Chantel Michielin for championing the contribution,” Drea said. “Donations like this truly change lives and help spearhead meaningful change.”

For Drea, the night was a lesson in gratitude and empathy. “It reinforced how fragile life can be and how important it is to see the world from someone else’s perspective,” she reflected.

The Stand Up Sleep Out proved that when the community comes together – young people, businesses, and local leaders – real change can happen, right here in the Burdekin.

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Wigs & Wine Fundraiser Sees The Burdekin Netball Association Rally Behind Cancer Council

With the tables set, and the scissors handy, nine members of the Burdekin Netball Association (BNA) will #RockTheChop this Friday, the 29th of August at the club’s Wigs & Wine fundraising party!

The Ponytail Project fundraising event supports the vital work of the Cancer Council Australia and encourages people across the nation to #RockTheChop and donate their hair to create wigs for those diagnosed with cancer. In 2024, the campaign saw more than 15,500 people donate their hair across 1,700 fundraising events, raising over $1.1 million for cancer research projects directed by the Cancer Council Australia.

Cailin Gosling, Aimee Gibson, Kristine Patti, Brittany Bohl, Dominique Gorey, Ella Zabel, Jade Bolam, Tayah Gibson and Tayla McKaig have committed to cutting their hair all in support of those diagnosed with cancer.

“I feel extremely grateful to be part of this Ponytail Project event for Cancer Council hosted by Burdekin Netball,” shared Cailin.

In January of 2021, Cailin cut and donated her hair to Hair with Heart through WA based children’s charity, Variety, and immediately after sending her locks away, she knew she wanted to continue donating her hair to those in need.

“In a meeting we were discussing hosting this event and I didn’t think twice when asked. I’m grateful and blessed I can grow strong, healthy hair to share with others,” Cailin added.

The event will be run in aid of 2025 Harvest Festival Queen Entrant, Aaliyah Gibson, and after the BNA sounded the call for women interested in becoming involved, many saw this as the perfect opportunity to support those they love the most.

“When the opportunity came to be part of a community event that supports not only our local sporting club but also an incredible cause like the Cancer Council, it wasn’t even a decision - it was an instant 'count me in!',” explained Brittany.

“Too many people are affected by this devastating disease, including some very close to my heart and if donating my hair can help even one person feel more confident during such a difficult time, then cutting my ponytail is a small gesture with a big purpose.”

Kristine, like many, has also held the hand of loved ones diagnosed with cancer. After hearing of the BNA’s initiative, she saw it as an excellent opportunity to raise funds for vital research projects and dove in without hesitation.

“Raising funds through this project is equally important to me because the money goes directly towards cancer research, prevention, and support services. Every dollar raised is a step closer to better treatments, more hope for families, and ultimately, a future with less suffering from cancer. Being able to contribute to that, even in a small way, means so much to me.”

The nine women have established their own fundraising pages and have each well and truly exceeded their initial goals, raising over $10,000 for the Cancer Council Australia, with still the funds raised from this Friday’s event yet to be calculated.

“It’s amazing how quickly the community responded to our fundraising, and we sincerely thank each and every one of them for their contributions,” said Cailin.

“Once Burdekin Netball and my fellow teammates began spreading the word, the response was overwhelming. Our community rallied behind us with incredible generosity and support. It’s been truly humbling to witness,” Brittany shared.

“This experience has shown just how deeply cancer has touched all our lives. Whether the contribution is big or small, we all want to help - because when we come together, we make a difference.”

If you would like to make a donation to the girls, visit www.ponytailproject.com.au/fundraisers/BURDEKINNETBALL.

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Aimee Gibson, Tayla McKaig, Aaliyah Gibson, Ella Zabel, Kristine Patti, and, Jade Bolam, Cailin Cosling, and Tayah Gibson, among others, have raised over $10,000 for the Cancer Council (Photo Credit: Cailin Gosling)

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The Kalamia Hotel extends a warm invitation to the wider community to attend a heartwarming Garden of Hope event this Saturday, the 30th of August to support and fundraise for life-changing cancer research.

Set to commence from 3pm in the venue’s Beer Garden area, the afternoon promises to entertain attendees with the wonderful musical talents of Alexa and keep the fun and good vibes flowing well into the evening with a delicious selection of food included with each ticket purchase. The theme of the event will be pink and purple, and the Kalamia Hotel hopes attendees with dress to impress in these vibrant tones to contribute to the afternoon’s colourful atmosphere.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to The Longest Table, an organisation committed to raising funds to support the work of The Hospital Research Foundation Group through encouraging establishments to host dinner parties across the nation. In 2025 alone, over 300 groups and establishments have committed to hosting an event, from backyard barbeques to workplace lunchbreaks, all to support one amazing cause.

To learn more about The Longest Table or to make a donation to the Kalamia Hotel’s Garden of Hope fundraising initiative, visit www.thelongesttable.com.au/fundraisers/Kalamiahotel.

What: Kalamia Hotel's Garden of Hope
When: Saturday 30th of August from 3pm
Where: Kalamia Beer Garden

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The Kalamia Hotel will host a wonderful fundraising event this Saturday (Photo Credit: Kalamia Hotel)

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Lower Burdekin Scouts Take on Sailing and Shooting Adventures
Members of the Lower Burdekin Scout Group have been keeping busy with back-to-back outdoor adventures this August.

On August 16, four Scouts from the group joined 10 others from Townsville for a sailing day at the Townsville Sailing Club. Under clear skies and a light breeze, participants started with sailing theory before learning to rig their boats. Once on the water, they rotated through different positions, gaining hands-on experience steering, handling sails, and working as a team. Scouts also spent time in the rescue boat, learning essential safety skills. The day provided a fun and practical introduction to sailing, with everyone enjoying the challenge and camaraderie.

A week later, on August 24, the Lower Burdekin Scouts joined 60 others at the Hervey Range Shooting Grounds for the annual Townsville-area shooting competition. The sunny day with a slight breeze set the scene for the event, which began with registration and a group safety briefing. Safety officers reminded Scouts throughout the competition of important protocols. Each Scout shot two rounds of five shots at targets, with the winner determined by the most shots closest to the centre.

The Lower Burdekin Scout Group meets every Thursday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at 12th Avenue, Home Hill. Families interested in joining can try Scouting for free for four weeks. For more information, contact Rikki on 0419 104 035.

Contributed with thanks to Chris Berkery

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Rural Aid has launched a powerful new fundraising campaign to secure the future of rural Australia by supporting the next generation of farmers — the children growing up on the land today.

These children are not only the future of their family farms, but also the future custodians of Australia’s food supply. Right now, many are facing significant challenges. From natural disasters to financial stress, country kids often grow up surrounded by uncertainty, with the weight of the farm’s future on their young shoulders.

Rural Aid is raising funds to provide both immediate and long-term support for country kids and their families. Donations will help deliver practical support including hay, domestic water, financial assistance, specialist counselling services, and continued delivery of Rural Aid’s Mustering Growth program — a school-based mental health and wellbeing initiative designed to build resilience and emotional strength in rural students.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the campaign is about much more than providing short-term support.

“If we want to keep young people on the land, we must support them now and from an early age. These kids are growing up in incredibly trying circumstances, but they are also the future of farming in this country,” Mr Warlters said.

“Many of our farms are passed down through generations. When we nurture country kids, when we support their wellbeing, confidence and connection to community, we’re not just helping them today. We’re safeguarding rural Australia’s future.”

For families like Danny and Erin Hutchinson, cattle and cropping farmers from Biddon, NSW, the value of support is deeply felt. Their children — Amelia (8), Ali (6) and Lockie (3) — are growing up with plenty of space to explore, but also with the stress of drought and financial strain close to home.

“We’re just so grateful for the support we received from Rural Aid,” said Ms Hutchinson. “It made a real difference, not just to the farm, but to our whole family’s wellbeing.”

Recent Rural Aid research highlights the scale of the challenge:
41% of farming parents are most concerned about financial stability and meeting their child’s basic needs
57% believe rural children need access to tailored mental health support
83% of farming families have used or would use Rural Aid’s counselling services

The campaign aims to ensure country kids have the support, skills and confidence they need to grow into strong, capable adults who can carry their communities, and the farming sector, into the future.

To help secure the future of our country kids and Australian farming, donate today at www.countrykids.ruralaid.org.au.

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Danny and Erin Hutchinson, cattle and cropping farmers, with children Amelia (8), Ali (6) and Lockie (3), say the value of support is deeply felt. Photo supplied

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After more than four decades of involvement, Uli Liessmann has officially assumed the role of President of the Home Hill Chamber of Commerce, as announced by the organisation at its most recent meeting last week.

Liessmann, returning for his second stint as Chamber president, was sworn in before a small crowd during Wednesday night’s proceedings, taking over from David Cooper, who stepped down after eight years in the role.

Liessmann described his election not as a milestone, but as a natural progression. “It just feels like another role in the Chamber,” he said. “I just want to continue to do the very best I can for the Chamber and for Home Hill.”

The Home Hill Chamber of Commerce is an apolitical, member-funded organisation which acts as the independent voice of local businesses, providing networking opportunities, promotional platforms, and connections across the business community.

As president of the Chamber, Liessmann will take on the responsibility of leading future meetings, and serve as a conduit between Home Hill residents and the Burdekin Shire Council.

He stated his commitment to ensuring the Chamber remains an accurate, all-encompassing voice of the public.

"I’ll continue to do my very best for the Chamber," he said. "If someone wants to ask something or find out information, they can come to me, and I’ll do my best to help."

Liessmann highlighted increasing meeting attendance and fostering a more inclusive environment as two of his key priorities while at the helm of the Chamber.

"You don’t have to be in business to attend a meeting—we want as many people as possible to come along, especially more young people and more women. If you’ve got something to say, we’ll give you the time to say it,” he said.

The organisation holds a public meeting every third Wednesday of the month, typically attended by Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and CEO Matthew Magin. These meetings provide a platform to discuss local matters and often feature guest speakers.

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Chamber Treasurer John Clarke, Rick Romeo, member Erin Brennan, former President David Cooper, Secretary Robert Antoniazzi and new President Uli Liessmann. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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